Peter Kay has been accused of making a homophobic joke about Judge Rinder as he made a surprise appearance on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The comedian sparked controversy when he popped up during Claudia Winkleman’s weekly opening of the phone lines on Saturday (19 November) night’s live show.
As he gathered with the contestants, Peter noticed the daytime TV judge - real name Robert - and said: “Let me say hello to this fellow - he’s brilliant!”
As Robert lent in for a hug, Peter jumped away, shouting: “Steady. Steady. Watch it me lad. Watch it.”
He then remarked, pointing to his rear: “This case is firmly closed.”
Some viewers claimed Peter’s joke was homophobic, taking to Twitter to call the comic out:
However, they were others who defended Peter from the backlash, claiming those offended were being too politically correct:
Saturday’s ‘Strictly’ was filmed live at the Blackpool Tower Ballrom, and the special episode saw the first perfect score handed out.
Danny Mac and his partner Oti Mabuse were awarded the maximum 40 points for their Charleston to ‘Puttin On The Ritz’, topping the leaderboard.
There was less good news for Ed Balls though, as he partner Katya Jones picked up just 23 points for thei Jive to ‘Great Balls Of Fire’.
One more contestant will leave the competition on Sunday, with the results show airing at 7.15pm on BBC One.